Exploring the perceptions of how living with osteoarthritis affects employed people's work productivity.

BACKGROUND

Working people with osteoarthritis (OA) can experience difficulties at work due to pain and activity limitation.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the impact of biopsychosocial factors on work participation in employed people with OA.

METHODS

An explorative, qualitative, semi-structured one-to-one telephone interview study. Employed people living with OA were recruited through an arthritis volunteer database and social media. Data was analysed using Thematic Analysis.

FINDINGS

Participants (n = 15) included people with OA in any joints from mixture of careers. Themes were: (1) Effects of OA on work participation, (2) Impact of workplace support and accommodations on employment, and (3) Importance of clinical support and management.

CONCLUSION

Impact of OA on people's work productivity results in a spill over into their home lives. Work transitions and adaptations are not always available. Employers need to be educated to support employees to create a positive work environment and promote available workplace support.